Andrew and his mother June Marks have forged a reputation for intense and varietally pure wines. The Sauvignon Blanc is amongst the finest produced outside of France, with a minerality and savoury crispness not unlike Sancerre. The Pinot Noir and Chardonnay represent a single-minded approach to letting these Burgundian varietals show their terroir and therefore the inherent quality of Gembrook’s vineyard.

This year our Village Pinot is a single vineyard pinot from a vineyard in Yellingbo in the Upper Yarra Valley. In a curious twist for the Upper Yarra Valley, this vineyard is situated on grey clay loam. So while the fruit has hallmark Upper Yarra perfume it has a denser richer palate and tannin structure.

From a vineyard in Yellingbo, 6km from Gembrook; 100% destemmed and fermented for three to four weeks on skins. A light, bright cherry crimson red. Lifted with a cornucopia of summer red fruits, florals and spices such as cardamon and cinnamon. Equally good on the light- to medium-bodied, supple and persistent palate. A delight to drink now and over the next two to three years. Date: Jan 2025; Alcohol: 13.5%; Price: $38.00; Drink by: 2029; Rating: 93 Points & Special Value Star; James Halliday Wine Companion